FINAL REFLECTION OF EDM 310
FALL SEMESTER
The first day of EDM 310 I never thought I would end up here. This is it. The journey through EDM 310 has been long and very meaningful. Although, I don't think the journey is over, I think the journey just began. I have learned so much throughout EDM 310 that I plan to use in my future first grade class. The tools that I plan to use in my future classroom are the use of the SMARTboard, Blogger, and Twitter. I do plan to use other sources of technology but these are the main three. The SMARTboard allows you to do many things, such as: search for information, animate objects, and many more. Blogger is probably the most useful sources of technology that I have ever used. EDM 310 introduced me to blogger and all of the wonderful sources that is has to offer. I believe that blogger is a wonderful and creative way to submit and complete assignments. I also think its easier if a student has a question because the student can look back and look at the class blog. Twitter is a great way of communication. The students can communicate via twitter for class instructions, questions, and other information regarding assignments. I think that all of these tools are wonderful sources to use within the classroom. Throughout my years of teaching I hope to find more sources to add to my tools of teaching.
EDM 310 has introduced me to several new teaching methods that I will use in my future classroom. Since I will be teaching at an elementary school the method that I found most useful is "Asking Better Questions in the Classroom." Joanne Chelsey provides a wonderful YouTube video of asking a closed ended question and asking an open ended question. I think its important that students understand the difference between the two types of questions and are able to provide the correct feedback.
I want my future first grade classroom to be an exciting learning atmosphere. I want my students to have fun and remember what they learn, so they can take what they have learned from my class to second grade. For instance, learning math in first grade can be a bit challenging. However, there are so many ways that teachers can teach this to emphasize students in the learning process. I believe that adding technology will help students. Allowing students to use MAC's, PC's, iPad, or even the SMARTboard could help trigger their learning process. Every young child loves to play and be involved in games. I will definitely use online learning activities for my students to complete regarding the math lessons. The students can learn from these online learning activities and be able to complete their assignments. I want my students to love learning and know that learning can be creative. Creating a warm, creative learning environment is what I am going to do for my classroom. I want my students to feel comfortable and welcomed while they are in my class. Wanting the best for your students is very important, and as being a teacher I believe that every teacher should strive to reach this goal. I plan to help all of my students succeed on to the next grade level. If they have any questions I want each and every one of my students to be able to ask me without feeling embarrassed. I will be sure to introduce to the class all of the sources of technology that can help them be better learners. I will definitely encourage my students to work together and help one another. I want them to understand the importance of working as a team. "No one gets left behind." Is a motto that I want to follow in my class. I want my students to help one another and be there for each other. I also plan to keep all of the parents updated on their child and what is going on in the classroom. I will have a blog set up just for the parents so I can post weekly newsletters, let them know what we are doing that week, and upcoming events. I want my students to be successful learners and I will do whatever I have to so they achieve that goal.
I have learned so much this semester in EDM 310 that I will definitely change about myself. Before taking EDM 310 I used to think that PowerPoints and worksheets were a good source of learning. However, I have learned new ideas of teaching and PowerPoint is not one of them. EDM 310 has introduced me to several other available sources such as iBook, Google Presentations, Prezi, and PLN. Instead of using a dry erase board or chalkboard I will now use the SMARTboard. I think the SMARTboard has a lot more to offer for the students.
In conclusion, my views of technology have changed in a positive way thanks to EDM 310. I was given a wonderful opportunity to work with new technology tools and methods of teaching. Without EDM 310 I would of never got the experience of working with Blogger, Podcast, iMovie, and iBook. I know that I do not know everything there is about technology, but I hope to learn more in my career of teaching.
Why about iPads? Do you plan on using those in your classroom, as well, if they are available to you? And what about PBL?
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